Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry stated on Friday that his country does not set preconditions for engaging in negotiations concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). In a discussion with "MBC" Egypt, Shoukry remarked, "If there is genuine political will from the Ethiopian side, the matter does not take long. However, if it continues with this obstinacy, it does not indicate a comfortable situation and suggests further regional tension."
He also noted that Ethiopia's statements regarding the GERD crisis challenge the international community, emphasizing that "negotiations on the GERD should aim to reach a binding legal agreement regarding filling and operation."
Shoukry further stated, "After the long period of negotiations, we have a clear vision also with our brothers in Sudan that these negotiations are not endless." He expressed confidence in President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to resume negotiations according to what has been approved by the African Union and based on the conclusions and presidential statement issued by the Security Council.
He reiterated that the negotiations aim to reach a binding legal agreement that is robust and achieved in a short period of time.
### Egyptian-American Meeting
It is noted that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi received U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Wednesday. El-Sisi emphasized to Sullivan the necessity for the international community to play an "effective role" in resolving the GERD issue, reiterating that Egypt "will not accept any harm to its water interests or their infringement."
For his part, Sullivan reaffirmed the U.S. administration's commitment to making efforts to ensure Egypt's water security, in a manner that preserves the water and developmental rights of all parties involved.
